Alexa and other smart speakers may endanger privacy rights

Legal experts say internet-connected smart speakers are the latest example of how technology and devices endear themselves to consumers before they realize the downsides. The devices are supposed to begin recording the conversation only in response to “wake words”—like “Alexa” (for the Echo), “OK Google” (for the Google Home) and “Hey Siri” (for Apple’s HomePod). But they may be able to hear background conversations while activated.